What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the n = 3 electron shell?

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Study for the Honors Chemistry Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Enhance your understanding with detailed explanations and hints. Prepare to excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the n = 3 electron shell?

Explanation:
The maximum number of electrons in a shell is determined by 2n^2, since a shell with principal quantum number n contains n^2 orbitals and each orbital holds 2 electrons. For n = 3, that gives 2 × (3)^2 = 18 electrons. You can also add up the sublevels in that shell: s holds 2, p holds 6, and d holds 10, which totals 18. So the maximum number of electrons in the n = 3 shell is 18.

The maximum number of electrons in a shell is determined by 2n^2, since a shell with principal quantum number n contains n^2 orbitals and each orbital holds 2 electrons. For n = 3, that gives 2 × (3)^2 = 18 electrons. You can also add up the sublevels in that shell: s holds 2, p holds 6, and d holds 10, which totals 18. So the maximum number of electrons in the n = 3 shell is 18.

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